Obituaries

Charles S. Cornett, age 82, of Florence, Kentucky, passed away on January 29, 2026. He was born to the late Lawrence and Ophia Cornett on April 4, 1943.

Charles grew up in Letcher County, Kentucky, nestled in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky—a place that shaped his work ethic, storytelling spirit, and deep love for people.

Throughout his life, Charles was no stranger to hard work. He labored in the coal mines of Eastern Kentucky, worked for Republic Steel in Chicago, served as a Kentucky State Trooper, and later owned and operated a trucking company. He finally retired as a labor worker and proud UAW member from General Motors in Norwood, Ohio. Each chapter of his life reflected his strong work ethic, determination, and willingness to do what was needed to provide for his family.

Above all else, Charles was a proud grandfather, answering to the name Papaw. He never missed an opportunity to talk about his grandson and granddaughter, sharing their accomplishments with anyone who would listen. Known for his love of a good tall tale accompanied with a hot cup of White Castle coffee, he could turn any story into an animated performance, captivating his audience with humor, expression, and heart. Charles lived out the parable of the Good Samaritan daily—always ready to lend a helping hand, care for his friends and family, and love his neighbor without hesitation.

He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Reva Gail Boggs Cornett, his daughter, Charlene Ball and his siblings Irene Halcomb, Dorothy Moore, Jim Cornett, Tom Cornett, and Reva Overbey.

He is survived by his grandson Josh Ball (Rachel) of Hebron, Kentucky; his granddaughter Katie Kisselbaugh (Cameron) of Elkton, Kentucky; his great-grandson Atticus Kisselbaugh; and his son-in-law Daniel Ball of Florence, KY. He also leaves behind siblings, Dovie Noel of Florence, KY; and Bill Cornett (Brenda) of Union, KY, along with a host of nieces and nephews who will fondly remember him.

Charles S. Cornett will be remembered for his generosity, his storytelling, his unwavering love for family, and the many lives he touched through simple acts of kindness. Visitation will take place on Saturday, February 7, 2026, from 11 a.m. until the time of service at 1 p.m. at Stith Funeral Home, 7500 US Hwy 42, Florence, KY 41042. Burial at Rice Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations in his memory be made to Legacy Living - Memory Care Unit of Florence, KY (8520 Gunpowder Rd, Florence, KY 41042) or Bluegrass Care Navigators - https://www.bgcarenav.org/give (1733 Harrodsburg Road, Lexington, Kentucky 40504).